What is the historical significance of the embargo act of 1807, how did it make a difference?
Answer Hi Lindy, The Embargo Act of 1807 was President Jefferson’s attempt to put pressure on France and England to stop attacking American merchant vessels. The embargo blocked trade with these countries until they agreed to respect American shipping. Unfortunately, the law failed miserably. Mostly what it did was destroy the merchant economy in New England. France and England did not really need American trade that badly and did not really care. The law was repealed two years later without any lasting impact. Its primary effect was probably to exacerbate sectional feelings between the north and south. I hope this helps!
